The thing is, there are other options. Whether you’re a student who really doesn’t want college at all or wants to take some time to decide, there are options for you to consider.
I hear from so many teens that they not sure how to ask for help, uncertain how their parents or loved ones will respond, and that big or heavy feelings aren't welcome in many spaces they occupy.
Teenagers, especially, need structure to thrive. From developing a healthy relationship with their technology and social media, to getting enough sleep (they need 9 hours on average!), to developing strong study skills or applying to college, to practicing self-care and playing, to building a social life, they have a lot to manage!
It's an uncertain and scary time for all of us; facing the global health crisis related to COVID-19 is stressful.
Parents reach out and ask, “How can we experience fewer nights of overwhelm and freak out over homework?!” And “How much should I be helping them?!”
You want to be received without judgment. Furthermore, you don’t want to be brushed off, yelled at, written off, talked over, underestimated, laughed at, and so on.
What would it be like to get notifications from people who light you up, make you laugh, inspire you? Do you got room for them? Are you making space for the new to come in? Would you like to be online less and IRL more?
In any decision-making opportunity, your teen has much to consider. They are simultaneously considering their own ideas, beliefs about what peers expect from them, thoughts about family norms, and images from media.
It’s critical for teen and young adult patients to grow in their capacity to advocate for themselves and work towards handling their healthcare independently.
Throughout your work on a big goal or project, it's important to check in with your purpose, your why.